What is the difference Vitamin K2 MK-7 & Mk-4?Updated 21 days ago

While both MK-4 and MK-7 are forms of Vitamin K2 (menaquinones), they behave very differently in your body. Dr. Berg often describes Vitamin K2 as the "traffic cop" for calcium—it ensures calcium goes into your bones and teeth and stays out of your soft tissues, like your arteries and kidneys. 

Here are the primary differences between the two: 

1. Source and Origin 

• MK-4 (Menaquinone-4): This is a synthetic form often used in low-quality supplements, though it does occur naturally in animal products like grass-fed butter, egg yolks, and organ meats.
• MK-7 (Menaquinone-7): This is a natural form typically derived from fermented foods, most notably Natto (fermented soy). Dr. Berg uses MK-7 in his formulas because of its superior bioavailability. However, the form of MK-7 we use is synthetic.

2. Half-Life (How long it stays in your body) 

This is the most significant functional difference: 

• MK-4 has a very short half-life: It only stays in your blood for a few hours. To maintain effective levels, you would need to take it multiple times a day.
• MK-7 has a long half-life: It stays active in your bloodstream for 24 to 72 hours. This allows it to build a consistent "reserve" in the body, providing much better protection for your cardiovascular system and bones with just one daily dose.

Dr. Berg’s Recommendation 

Dr. Berg uses MK-7 in his Vitamin D3 & K2 formula because it works synergistically with Vitamin D. Since Vitamin D increases calcium absorption, you need a long-lasting "traffic cop" like MK-7 to ensure that extra calcium is managed properly around the clock.